Western Europe, from the mid–15th century to the mid–17th century, underwent profound changes in all fields: social, economic, political and cultural. It experienced an unprecedented commercial expansion and opening of its economy to the world. A Scientific Revolution has developed in its territory, completely changing its intellectual horizons and ways of seeing the world. A growing interest in the classical Greco –Roman period was remarkable in cultural circles, which is usually known by the name of the Renaissance. As if it were not enough, his intrepid navigators discovered other lands and continents, culminating in the discovery of America in 1492. In this context I focus on transport systems and commercial activities, always trying to articulate these developments with cultural, economic and political issues.